Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Incredibly delicious and perfectly spiced, Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With a rich apple filling enhanced by cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of bourbon, this pie brings warmth and comfort to your table. Topped with a crunchy Dutch apple crumb topping that bakes to golden perfection, it’s no wonder that this recipe is my husband Tony’s absolute favorite—and it will soon become yours too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet-tart apples and warm spices creates a mouthwatering filling that delights the senses.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, this pie fits right in.
• Easy to Follow: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious treat.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Serves 9, making it great for sharing with friends and family.
• Versatile Serving Suggestions: Pair it with vanilla bean ice cream for an extra special touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will simplify your baking process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie pan
• Skillet or pot
• Mixing bowls
• Fork
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie pan: A good pie pan helps achieve even baking and prevents sticking.
• Skillet or pot: Ideal for cooking the apple filling evenly while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and making the crumble topping effortlessly.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 recipe for pie crust

For the filling:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 ½ pounds sweet-tart, firm apples (honeycrisp, braeburn or pink lady are great), peeled and cut into 1/4th inch slices (about 10 cups sliced apples)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon bourbon or amaretto
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Dutch apple topping:

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (107g) packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup (24g) rolled oats
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

For serving:

• Vanilla bean ice cream

How to Make Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Step 1: Make the Pie Dough

Prepare your pie dough ahead of time. Shape it in a pie pan and store covered in the fridge until needed. You can follow my all-butter flaky pie crust recipe or use your favorite store-bought option.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
1. Add sliced apples to coat them in butter.
2. Sprinkle with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg; stir well.
3. Lower heat to medium-low; cook until apples soften (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in bourbon, vanilla extract, apple cider vinegar, flour, and cornstarch; cook on low heat for another 3-5 minutes until thickened.
5. Remove from heat; allow cooling for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to preheat at 375 degrees F.

Step 4: Make the Dutch Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl:
1. Mix together flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon.
2. Add melted butter and stir until it forms crumbles resembling wet sand.
3. If necessary, use hands to form crumbles more evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

1. Take the chilled pie crust out of the fridge; place on a baking sheet to catch any spills during baking.
2. Pour cooled apple filling into the crust; top with Dutch crumble mixture.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Bake your apple pie for about 50-65 minutes or until bubbly filling shows through and crumble turns golden brown. Check after 30 minutes—if crust edges are browning too much, cover them with foil.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Let your pie cool on a wire rack for at least four hours before slicing. This step is important as it allows the filling to set properly! Serve with vanilla bean ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience! Enjoy!

How to Serve Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie is a delightful dessert that shines on its own but can be even better with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your pie experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices of pie topped with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic pairing that balances the warm, spiced flavors of the pie.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top for a light and airy complement that enhances the richness of the apple filling.

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

• Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch that adds sweetness and richness, perfect for caramel lovers.

Nutty Crunch

• Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top to add texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.

Coffee or Tea

• Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and provide a comforting beverage option after your meal.

Fresh Fruit

• Plate slices with fresh fruit, like berries or orange segments, for a refreshing contrast that brightens up each bite of pie.

How to Perfect Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

To ensure you achieve the best possible result with Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie, consider these tips for perfection in every slice.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn to get the best flavor and texture.
• Let Filling Cool: Allow the apple filling to cool before pouring it into the crust. This helps prevent a soggy bottom crust.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pie while baking. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the pie cool for at least 4 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste; adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance flavors.
• Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve slices warm, as this brings out all the delicious aromas and flavors of the pie.

Best Side Dishes for Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Pairing side dishes with Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cheese Platter: Include aged cheddar or brie, which pair well with apple desserts and add savory contrast.
2. Salad Greens: A light green salad with vinaigrette cuts through sweetness and refreshes your palate after rich pie slices.
3. Pumpkin Soup: Serve alongside creamy pumpkin soup for a cozy fall dining experience that complements apple flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts bring earthy tones that balance sweet desserts nicely.
5. Savory Biscuits: Flaky biscuits can make for an interesting textural contrast against the softness of pie, perfect for brunches.
6. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry side adds brightness and balances sweetness while keeping things festive during holidays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong apples: Choosing the wrong type of apple can lead to a soggy pie. Stick with sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the pie too soon can result in a runny filling. Allow it to cool for at least 4 hours before serving to ensure it sets properly.
• Overmixing the crumble topping: Mixing too much can lead to a dense topping instead of a light and crumbly texture. Combine the ingredients just until they resemble wet sand.
• Not checking the crust: If you don’t monitor your crust while baking, it may burn. Keep an eye on it after 30 minutes, and cover with foil if necessary.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold butter and ingredients helps create a flaky crust. Make sure your ingredients are at the right temperature when you start baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat pie for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie.

What makes Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie special?

This pie stands out because of its perfectly spiced apple filling combined with a crunchy Dutch crumble topping, creating a delightful texture and flavor contrast.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on apples, you can experiment with pears or berries for different flavors.

How do I prevent my crust from becoming soggy?

Ensure you pre-bake your crust slightly and let the filling cool before adding it, which helps maintain its crispness.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend in both the crust and crumble topping.

Can I prepare the pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare both the filling and topping ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie is not just any dessert; it’s a comforting treat that brings joy to any gathering. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with vanilla bean ice cream, this recipe allows room for customization. Feel free to add nuts or caramel sauce for an extra special touch. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!